What should you know about ulcer blood in vomit?

Vomited blood may look bright red, dark brown, or like coffee grounds. An ulcer in the stomach or the first part of the small intestine can damage a blood vessel and cause upper digestive tract bleeding. Blood swallowed from the mouth or nose, or irritation after forceful vomiting, can also contribute.

Vomiting blood is not a diagnosis of cancer. Oesophageal and stomach cancers are among the conditions a clinician may consider, but the symptom has several possible causes. Assessment may include vital signs, blood tests, medicines review, and an upper endoscopy to locate and treat bleeding.

Arrange urgent medical assessment, especially if the blood is recurring or you feel faint. Do not take anti-inflammatory painkillers unless a clinician has told you to, and do not drink alcohol while waiting for advice. Tell the clinician about aspirin, blood thinners, steroid medicines, previous ulcers, liver disease, and the amount and appearance of blood.

Call emergency services for vomiting a large amount of blood, fainting, confusion, severe weakness, cold clammy skin, rapid breathing, or black tar-like stools. These can signal significant bleeding or shock. Even a small amount needs prompt advice because the source and ongoing blood loss cannot be judged safely from appearance alone.

Could an ulcer explain the bleeding, and what other causes need checking? Do I need an endoscopy or blood tests? Which medicines should I pause or continue? How will the ulcer be treated and checked for recurrence? What symptoms mean I should return immediately?